US airline Delta is trialling a new method of dealing with compensation for flight overbooking which could mark a permanent change in the way passengers are repaid.

The airline, which merged with Northwest in 2008 to form the world’s largest commercial carrier, is using a new system that allows passengers to “bid” on the amount of compensation they would accept for being bumped to another flight.

In the new setup some Delta travelers in the US are asked how much they would accept for being bumped when they check-in online or at an airport kiosk.

Passengers who choose a low amount are more likely to be selected to receive the compensation and be moved, meaning that those with a higher compensation cost will be allowed on the flight.